Istanbul Convention

A pragmatic tool for decision-makers, the Convention structures and encourages the state in its responsibility to prevent violence against women, protect victims and prosecute the perpetrators.

There are 12 steps to implementing the Convention:

Decision-makers can use the Istanbul Convention to design policies to protect and assist all victims of violence against women and domestic violence. The relevant state agencies, services and NGOs can use it to work together in a more co-ordinated way. The Convention also aims to change the hearts, minds and attitudes of all members of society, in particular men and boys.

States need to respond adequately to violence against women as a violation of human rights and a form of discrimination. GREVIO is the independent expert body that monitors compliance, together with the states that have ratified the Convention.